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At Namaste Stupa, visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the beautiful architecture of the stupa. It is a great place for meditation, reflection, and photography. The site also offers a chance to learn about Buddhist culture and enjoy the serene environment. Walking around the stupa and taking part in the spiritual atmosphere is a must-do activity.
The Heshi Relic Pagoda, located within Famen Temple in Fufeng County, Baoji City, Shaanxi Province, is the core structure of the Famen Temple Cultural Scenic Area. Designed to resemble two hands clasped together, it stands majestic and imposing, dedicated to the Buddha's finger relic. Standing 148 meters tall, the Heshi Relic Pagoda resembles clasped hands, with a hollowed-out center section housing a traditional Tang Dynasty pagoda, housing the Buddha's finger relic, a supreme Buddhist treasure.
The golden exterior of the clasped hands represents a modern structure. Inside, a shrine houses ten thousand golden Buddhas for worship. The golden central stupa, a four-story wooden pagoda from the Tang Dynasty's Famen Temple, embodies the harmonious integration of history and modernity, combining inheritance with innovation. Nine halos adorn the pagoda's top, symbolizing the constant rotation of the Dharma Wheel. Hundreds of laser lights flash throughout the pagoda, symbolizing the Buddha's pervasive light. A Muni jewel symbolizes the consummation of merit.
The temperate monsoon climate has distinct four seasons, mild weather, and abundant rainfall. Summers are hot, winters are cold, and spring and autumn are comfortable. Spring, summer, and autumn are suitable for travel.
The Heshi Stupa consists of twelve floors, symbolizing the Twelve Links of Dependent Origination. The underground chamber houses the Buddha's finger relic, while the first four floors above ground enshrine the Nirmanakaya, Sambhogakaya, and Dharmakaya Buddhas, respectively. Surrounding the Buddha are the Four Great Bodhisattvas and the Four Heavenly Kings, symbolizing the Three Bodies and the Sixfold Dharma Realm.
The relics of Sakyamuni are on display on the first floor (they are only on display on the first and fifteenth days of the lunar month, holidays). The second floor houses the Sambhogakaya Buddha. This is the tallest gilded Buddha statue currently at Famen Temple, at 21.48 meters, dedicated by the Chung Tai Chan Monastery and Mr. Li Zuyuan. Standing 54 meters above the Heshi Relic Pagoda, one can overlook the entire cultural area, divided into three zones: Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. It integrates heaven, earth, and humanity, uniting all living things within the Dharma.
It is recommended to play for about 20 minutes.
No tickets are required, as it is included in the Famen Temple ticket.
Peak season: 120 yuan/person (March 1 to November 30 every year)
90 yuan/person in the off-season (December 1st to February 29th of the following year)
March 1st - November 30th 08:30-19:00
December 1st - February 28th of the following year, 09:00-18:00
Namaste Stupa in Baoji, Shaanxi, is a Buddhist stupa that holds religious and cultural significance. It was built to commemorate the teachings of Buddhism and is a place for meditation and spiritual reflection. The stupa is an important part of the local Buddhist community, providing a peaceful sanctuary for visitors to engage with the Buddhist philosophy.
Namaste Stupa is located in Baoji, Shaanxi. It can be reached by taxi or local bus from Baoji’s city center. There are no metro lines directly servicing the stupa, so public transport or taxis are the best options. Walking is possible if you’re staying nearby, but it may take some time due to the distance.
Namaste Stupa is open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when the stupa is quieter and more serene. The peaceful atmosphere is ideal for meditation and reflection, especially in the cooler months of spring and autumn.
The entrance fee is usually around ¥30 to ¥50, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the stupa or through local online ticketing platforms. It is advisable to check availability before your visit, especially during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not generally required, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons, such as national holidays. Booking 1-2 days in advance is sufficient, but during busy times, you may want to book a week ahead to ensure availability.
You can fully explore Namaste Stupa in about 1 to 2 hours. This allows time for meditation, reflection, photography, and a leisurely walk around the stupa. If you prefer to spend more time reflecting or engaging with the site’s spiritual aspects, you can stay longer.
The main highlight is the stupa itself, with its intricate architecture and peaceful surroundings. The area around the stupa is perfect for quiet reflection, and there are several small shrines and prayer wheels to explore. The view from the stupa offers a calm and scenic outlook over the surrounding area.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they can be arranged at the entrance. Audio guides in English may also be available, but it is best to inquire upon arrival. The tours typically provide insights into the history and significance of the stupa and its role in Buddhist practice.
The best viewpoints are from the elevated areas around the stupa, offering a wide view of the peaceful grounds and surrounding landscapes. Photography is best in the morning or late afternoon, when the lighting is softer. The stupa itself also makes for a stunning photograph, especially from a low angle with the sky in the background.
Start by walking around the stupa to take in the architecture and views. Spend some time at the shrines and prayer wheels. Afterward, take a walk through the surrounding grounds and find a peaceful spot for meditation or reflection. Finish your visit by taking in the panoramic views from the top of the stupa.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Namaste Stupa. However, the stupa is an excellent place to visit during the day for meditation, photography, and spiritual reflection. It is recommended to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate its serene atmosphere.
Namaste Stupa tends to be less crowded during weekdays, especially in the mornings and late afternoons. Weekends and public holidays see an influx of visitors, so it’s best to visit during off-peak hours for a quieter experience.
The area around Namaste Stupa has basic facilities, including toilets and small rest areas. There are no large restaurants or cafes within the stupa complex, but small kiosks may sell bottled water and snacks. For more extensive food options, you may need to go into Baoji city.
Namaste Stupa is accessible for elderly and children, but the terrain may be a bit challenging in certain areas due to steps and uneven ground. There are no special facilities for disabled visitors, but the main paths around the stupa are generally manageable for most visitors with limited mobility.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted at Namaste Stupa, as well as cash. It’s convenient to use mobile payment methods, but it’s also a good idea to carry some cash just in case.
There are no major restaurants or cafes inside the stupa area. However, nearby Baoji offers a wide range of dining options, from local Chinese cuisine to international restaurants. It’s recommended to visit Baoji for more food choices after your visit.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Baoji city, with several restaurants offering plant-based dishes. Halal food options may be more limited but can be found in certain parts of the city catering to Muslim communities.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Baoji city, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. For more luxury options, you can find well-known hotels in the city center, which provide easy access to other local attractions as well.
Nearby attractions include the Baoji Bronze Museum and the Famen Temple, both of which are rich in cultural and historical significance. These can be easily combined in a day trip with Namaste Stupa for a well-rounded experience of the area’s heritage.
There are small souvenir shops near the stupa where visitors can purchase Buddhist-themed items, such as prayer beads, incense, and small statues. These items are symbolic of the spiritual significance of the site.
The best options for continuing your trip include taxis or buses to other local attractions in Baoji or beyond. The Baoji Railway Station offers convenient access to major cities like Xi’an if you wish to continue your travels by train.
